Kwaikens!

While we are on topic. What's the definition of a Kwaiken. Is there a more...standardized Kwaiken? Straight Handle, Straight Blade? Since I could see Brian Nadeaus / Sharp by Design Typhoon Tanto Version possibly being a Kwaiken too:
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I don't think there is any hard and fast definition to a modern Kwaiken. Certainly, they have a historic definition but I doubt it was even a folding knife.

Moreover, different knives have varying degrees of Kwaiken influence. Kind of like asking "what is a Bowie knife." Has a lot of answers that seem to change a little over the years. Seems like it's more of a look than anything else.

Finally, I could be wrong too. I do know that I generally like knives that are described as Kwaikens.
 
b00n said:
While we are on topic. What's the definition of a Kwaiken. Is there a more...standardized Kwaiken? Straight Handle, Straight Blade? Since I could see Brian Nadeaus / Sharp by Design Typhoon Tanto Version possibly being a Kwaiken too:
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Hey b00n,

First of all thank you for pointing me to the K2, I absolutely love the model and thanks to you, as you know, I'm now the elated owner of two.

Now to address your inquiry...I believe a Kwaiken is a blade that's defined by a tanto/tantoish grind, straight blade, and straight handle. While contouring is acceptable, I believe this blade must align itself in most ways according to the historical fixed blade version. Remember, a traditional Kwaiken wouldn't have been a knife that's used for anything other than self defense/the retention of honor. It was never something that was applied routinely or mundanely. With that in mind, the adherence to the traditional blade/handle shape is key.
 
I have never heard of Pohan Leu however, since you mentioned it I looked them up and must admit they are some gorgeous blades. I'm not the biggest fan of fixed blades but they we're very beautiful. Thanks for mentioning it! Kwaikens are one of the best blades IMO.
Glenn Goodlett said:
Liong Mah
Jason Clark
David Clark
Pohan Leu
Rike
I have a Quartermaster (that's right) Kwaiken that I absolutely love the design. I guess it's a We made knife anyway.

I like Kwaikens too. That Mah XV is on my super short list.
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...just lately? ;)

I've been making kwaiken for almost ten years. In fact, I'm trying NOT to, now!:D


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@Mecha collaboration Beta Titanium blade and carbon fiber
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@keithf collaboration
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Just to show a few...


NorthernSouthpaw said:
It may seem rather plain, but the Boker (and Lucas Burnley's custom original) is what started all this kwaiken madness in the first place.

Interested in fixed Kwaikens?
Ben Tendick and Matthew Gregory have been KILLIN' it lately!
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Over in the Knifemaker's forum, custom fixed blades for sale, lots of guys make kwaikens. Many of them are chisel ground, which you may or may not like. You should check them out they're beautiful handmade blades.
 
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